This Ultimate Guide to Cartridge and DE Filters
A cloudy pool that will not clear is usually not a chemical problem. For Frisco and North Dallas pool owners, the real culprit is often the most vital equipment on the pad: the filter. In this video, Next Wave Pool Care covers exactly when to clean cartridge and DE filters, the routine schedule they need, and the point where cleaning is no longer enough and replacement is the only fix.
Struggling with a cloudy pool? You might be ignoring the most vital equipment on your pad, the filter. Today, we're covering exactly when to clean and replace cartridge and DE filters. Sand filters work differently, so we'll save those for a later video.
First up, when to clean immediately. If your pressure gauge is 8 to 10 PSI higher than its clean baseline, your filter is choking. Another red flag? Stubborn algae and cloudy water you just can't fix.
## The Routine Schedule, and When to Replace
Next, the routine schedule. Don't wait for a massive pressure spike to take action. Both cartridge and DE systems require a complete teardown and a deep power wash every 3 to 6 months.
Finally, when to replace them. Remember, cleaning has its limits. If your DE grids have torn fabric or your cartridge pleats are totally calcified, you must replace them entirely. Staying ahead of these milestones prevents expensive chemical disasters.
## Key Takeaways
- A pressure gauge reading 8 to 10 PSI above its clean baseline means the filter is choking and needs cleaning right away; stubborn algae and cloudy water that will not clear are the other red flag.
- Both cartridge and DE filters need a complete teardown and deep power wash every 3 to 6 months, not just when pressure spikes.
- Cleaning has limits: DE grids with torn fabric and cartridge pleats that are totally calcified must be replaced entirely.
- Staying ahead of the clean-and-replace milestones prevents expensive chemical problems downstream.
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